73
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
distant about 60 miles from Bexar. It appears by a letter from Mr B McCulloch dated Bexar 9th inst. addressed to Col. T. Green of this place, that Indian depredations had recently been committed in the vicinity of that place. Hays with 15 men went out to scout the country around and ascertain who they were, he proceeded to the "Pedernales" and finding no sign was returning when Indians were discovered; it seems they had fol- lowed on his trail. Some showed themselves and bantered him for a fight, Hays advanced upon them, they manovered in re- treat, he suspecting they were in force made for a point of timber to take position, but found it already occupied by the main body of the Indians his approach arousing them from their lair, they made the attack, he ordered the charge, and then they had it in close combat hand to hand en "melee" only one gun was fired and that killed their chief but the repeating pistols, the "five shooters" made great havoc among them, some 30 or more were the killed and wounded, finally they fell back carrying off their dead and wounded and encamped in sight, where they remained, the belligerent camps in sight of each other when messenger (Mr. Threadgill) who Maj. Hays sent to Bexar for reinforcements and supplies left them-Hays had none killed and but two wounded Mr. Walker seriously, perhaps mortally, and Mr. Gillespie severely. Lieut. McCulloch had already dispatched 12 men with pro- visions medical aid etc. to Succour Hays previous to the depar- ture of the mail-The serious character of Walkers obliged Hays to maintain his position, he could neither advance or re- treat without abandoning his wounded. Threadgill it is said stated that they were Comanche while writing this I have learned that various letters are in Town confirming the above and that the Indians were of the Tribe above mentioned-I hasten to make this communication to you for your information-No news has been received from the Council ground agent Sloat has not written-all seems to be quiet on that position-I have written to him repeatedly but have recd no reply. Mr. Bryant is here-Gen. Morehouse is sick Maj Riley [Reily] is better-the court martial has not had a quorum for a week or more--the Supreme Court is in sess'ion and has been since middle of last week- You have no doubt by way of Galveston heard of the affair with the Indians at Kinneys rancho Corpus Christi.
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